Postek TX Exp Series User manual

FCC Notice
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
This equipment may generate, use and/or radiate radio frequency energy. If not installed and used in
full accordance with this User’s Manual, interference to radio communications may occur. This
equipment complies with the limits for a Class A Information Technology Equipment pursuant to Part
15 of the FCC Rules, which are designed to provide reasonable protection against such interference
when operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this equipment in a residential area may
also cause interference. In such case the user, at his/her expense, will be required to correct the
interference using whatever means necessary.
Trademarks
POSTEK is a registered trademark by POSTEK Electronics Co., Ltd.
ARM is a registered trademark of Advanced RISC Machines Ltd.
Microsoft, Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Copyright
© 2023 by Postek Electronics Co., Ltd. All rights reserved. Under the copyright laws, this manual
cannot be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of POSTEK. No patent
liability is assumed, with respect to the use of the information contained herein.
Disclaimer
POSTEK barcode/RFID printers are developed and produced by Postek Electronics Co., Ltd
(hereinafter “POSTEK”) with the adoption of direct thermal/thermal transfer printing and RFID
encoding techniques. For thermal transfer printing, matching ribbons and media are required.
Meanwhile, the wide variety of RFID chip and antenna designs makes it difficult to guarantee RFID
tags 100% compatibility with POSTEK printers. To satisfy your printing needs, please consult with
the reseller(s) to choose the matching consumables for POSTEK printers.
This manual has been validated and reviewed for accuracy. The instructions and descriptions it
contains are accurate for the POSTEK printer at the time of this manual’s distribution. However,
succeeding printers and manuals are subject to change without notice. POSTEK assumes no liability
for damages incurred directly or indirectly from errors, omissions or discrepancies between the
printer and this manual.
To protect your interests, and to prevent loss due to improper handling, please read the corresponding
user’s manual before operation, and don't use the printer during abnormal conditions. In no event
shall POSTEK be liable for any damage or loss caused by human misoperations, including but not
limited to loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business information, or other
pecuniary loss.
Although this manual describes and details many issues which could possibly occur, the manufacturer
cannot warrant against unpredictable conditions during the printer’s application. For problems such
as the printer not working, missed or unclear print content, etc., POSTEK and/or its resellers are

responsible for troubleshooting (according to POSTEK Warranty Clauses) only. In no event shall
POSTEK or the resellers involved be liable for any direct or indirect loss, including but not limited to
loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business information, or other pecuniary loss.
Important Safety Instructions
•Only qualified and trained service technicians should attempt to repair the printer.
•Do not place the printer on or near a heat source.
•Be sure that your power source matches the rating listed on the regulatory label on the back of the
printer. Be certain your power source is grounded.
•To avoid getting an electric shock, do not use a worn or damaged power cord. If the power cord
becomes damaged or frayed, replace it immediately.
•Do not insert anything into the ventilation slots or openings on the printer.
•The printer should never be operated in a location where it can get wet. Personal injury may
result.
•The printhead becomes hot while printing. To protect from damaging the printhead and risk of
personal injury, avoid touching the printhead.
•To get increased printhead longevity and higher quality printouts, always use approved labels,
tags and thermal transfer ribbons. Approved supplies can be ordered from your POSTEK
authorized reseller.
•Static electricity that accumulates on the surface of the human body or other surfaces can damage
or destroy the printhead or electronic components in this device. DO NOT touch the printhead or
the electronic components with bare hands.
•Place the printer on a flat, firm, solid surface.
•Never operate in a high-temperature environment.
•Turn off the power when not in use for extended periods.
•Follow all recommendations and setup instructions included in this manual.

TX Exp Series RFID | Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual Contents
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Contents
Preface .......................................................................................................................... 1
Important Notes........................................................................................................... 2
Chapter 1: Introduction.............................................................................................. 4
1.1 Specifications .........................................................................................................................4
Optional Features ...................................................................................................................5
1.2 Contents in the Box................................................................................................................6
Chapter 2: Setup and Use ........................................................................................... 7
2.1 Main Parts and Structures ......................................................................................................7
2.1.1 Front View.....................................................................................................................7
2.1.2 Interior View .................................................................................................................8
2.1.3 Rear View......................................................................................................................9
2.1.4 Consumables Loading Path.........................................................................................10
2.2 Setting up the Printer ...........................................................................................................12
2.2.1 Interface Connection ...................................................................................................12
2.2.2 Connecting the Printer ................................................................................................12
2.2.3 Loading the Ribbon.....................................................................................................13
2.2.4 Loading the Media ......................................................................................................17
2.3 Installing the Printer Driver .................................................................................................27
2.3.1 USB Port Installation ..................................................................................................27
2.3.2 Network Port Installation............................................................................................31
2.4 Installing Label Editing Software ........................................................................................37
Chapter 3: Operations and Settings ........................................................................ 38
3.1 The Front Panel....................................................................................................................38
3.1.1 Panel Buttons ..............................................................................................................39
3.1.2 Status Indicator ...........................................................................................................39
3.1.3 LCD Touchscreen........................................................................................................40
3.2 Settings.................................................................................................................................41
3.2.1 General Settings ..........................................................................................................41
3.2.2 Communication...........................................................................................................52
3.2.3 RFID ...........................................................................................................................55
3.2.4 Management................................................................................................................59
3.2.5 Advanced.....................................................................................................................61
3.3 Mechanical Adjustments......................................................................................................76
3.3.1 Adjusting the Media Sensor ........................................................................................76
3.3.2 Adjusting the Printhead Pressure and Balance............................................................78
3.3.3 Adjusting the Ribbon Tension.....................................................................................79
Chapter 4: Maintenance ........................................................................................... 80
4.1 Cleaning the Printhead.........................................................................................................80
4.2 Cleaning the Platen Roller ...................................................................................................80
4.3 Cleaning the Printer Interior ................................................................................................80
4.4 Cleaning the Sensors............................................................................................................81
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting...................................................................................... 82
5.1 Error Messages.....................................................................................................................82
5.2 Miscellaneous Issues............................................................................................................89

TX Exp Series RFID | Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual Contents
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Appendix A: Interface Specifications ...................................................................... 90
Appendix B: ASCII Table ......................................................................................... 91

TX Exp Series RFID | Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual Preface
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Preface
Your POSTEK high performance industrial RFID label printer features innovative state-of-the-art
technology and superior quality workmanship. Boasting an all metal frame and unique core
construction, it achieves a sturdy and durable stationary platform for smooth printing. A powerful
control system can easily handle the most complicated printing requirements, and advanced thermal
transfer/direct thermal technology offers optimum printout clarity.
This manual explains how to set up and begin using your printer. It also provides detailed information
on configuring your printer, basic operations, care, and troubleshooting.
Please read this manual carefully before using the POSTEK printer.
Symbol Conventions
The symbols that may be found in this document are defined as follows.
Symbol
Description
Alerts you to a medium or low risk hazard that could, if not avoided, result
in moderate or minor injury.
Alerts you to a potentially hazardous situation that could, if not avoided,
result in equipment damage, data loss, performance deterioration, or
unanticipated results.
Provides additional information to emphasize or supplement important
points in the main text.
Version
Version 1.0, published in January, 2023.

TX Exp Series RFID | Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual Important Notes
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Important Notes
Please read the following passages thoroughly before proceeding.
Printhead
The thermal printhead can be easily damaged due to its precision construction. A printhead damaged
by misuse is not covered under the terms of the warranty. To ensure longevity of the printhead, please
note the following:
•DO NOT scrape or use tools that might damage the printhead surface.
•To protect from corroding the printhead, DO NOT touch the printhead with bare hands.
•DO NOT use thermal paper or thermal transfer ribbons which contain Na, K or Cl elements.
•Keep the printhead from any form of liquid or dampness.
•Only use a cotton swab dipped in anhydrous isopropyl alcohol to clean the printhead.
•Always use high-quality consumables:
When the printhead module is closed, pressure is placed directly onto the printhead; dirt such
as paper scraps, sand, dust and glue can scrape or damage the printhead.
The printhead is also easily damaged by static electricity, which may be generated by poor
quality ribbons.
•Always inspect consumables for high quality before purchasing.
The printer functions under Direct Thermal or Thermal Transfer print modes. Thermal Transfer
is set as the factory default (requires ribbon for printing). However, if you need to print on Direct
Thermal materials (ribbon is not required), please contact your printer supplier or service provider
to reduce the printhead pressure. This can protect your printhead from early performance
deterioration due to direct contact with the thermal media. Any physical printhead damage caused
by direct thermal printing is not covered under warranty.

TX Exp Series RFID | Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual Important Notes
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Cutter (Optional)
The printer equipped with a cutter can automatically cut the label after printing. However, automatic
cutters pose a safety hazard since the blades are very sharp. To prevent injuries and cutter failures
while using one of the many types of automatic cutters, please follow the safety and maintenance
rules listed below:
•Before using the cutter, be sure you have been trained by a qualified individual. A written
procedure covering the cutter's use is recommended.
•It is very important to choose the right cutter model for the application to ensure personal safety
and prevent damage to the cutter caused by cutting wrong types of media.
•Keep loose items such as long hair, clothing, jewelry, away from the cutter.
•Don't put anything except print media inside the cutter.
•Turn off power of printer if you notice abnormality with the cutting process and alert a qualified
technician to resolve the issue.
•Never cut a print media which exceeds the maximum operating conditions of the cutter.
•Not every cutter model is designed to be able to cut through adhesive. Use only the dedicated
cutters to cut through adhesive materials. Even so, regular cleaning is required to remove the
adhesive built up on the blades over time to prevent cutter jam.
•Routine inspection and maintenance are required to be performed by a qualified technician to
keep the cutter in good working conditions.

TX Exp Series RFID | Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual Chapter 1: Introduction
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Chapter 1: Introduction
1.1 Specifications
Model
TX2 Exp
TX3 Exp
TX6 Exp
Model with RFID
TX2r Exp
TX3r Exp
TX6r Exp
Printing Mode Direct Thermal and Thermal Transfer
Max Printing Speed 16 ips (406.4 mm/s) 12 ips (304.8 mm/s) 6 ips (152.4 mm/s)
Max Printing Width 4.09″ (104 mm) 4.16″ (105.7 mm) 4.16″ (105.6 mm)
Max Printing Length 196″ (500 mm)
MPU 64-bit, quad Arm® Cortex®-A53 core, maximum operating frequency 1.8
GHz
GPU GC NanoUltra 3D (1 shader) &GC320 2D OpenGL ES 2.0
Memory 2GB DDR4 RAM, 8GB managed NAND flash
HEATTM Level①I
RFID Encoder
Supports UHF EPC Gen 2, ISO 18000-6C protocols
(Only available for RFID models)
Media Roll
Maximum Media Width: 4.56″ (116 mm)
Minimum Media Width: 0.39" (10 mm)
Maximum Outer Diameter: 8″(203.2 mm)
Inner Diameter: 1.5″ (38 mm) / 3″ (76.2 mm)
Minimum Label
Length
Tear-off: 0.2″ (5 mm)
Cutter: A150/A400: 0.79″ (20 mm)
Media Thickness
Regular Barcode Label Printer
and Regular RFID Label Printer: 0.0024″ ~
0.012″ (0.06 ~ 0.305 mm), including liner
Mount-on-Metal RFID Label Printer②: 0.063″ (1.6 mm) max., including
liner
Ribbon
Maximum Ribbon Length: 1968' (600 m)
Maximum Ribbon Width: 4.65″ (118 mm)
Maximum Outer Diameter: 3.31″ (84 mm)
Inner Diameter: 1″ (25.4 mm)
Ink side: both In and Out
Media Sensor
Upper reflective: detects black marks on print side
Lower reflective: detects black marks on back side
Transmissive: detects gaps, notches, holes

TX Exp Series RFID | Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual Chapter 1: Introduction
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Model
TX2 Exp
TX3 Exp
TX6 Exp
Model with RFID
TX2r Exp
TX3r Exp
TX6r Exp
Fonts
Five built-in dot matrix fonts, which include Basic Latin and Latin-1
Supplement character sets.
Two built-in scalable fonts. One supports Latin, Greek and Cyrillic scripts,
and the other is a GB2312 Chinese character set specifically.
User downloadable TrueType fonts.
Barcode Types
1D Barcodes: Code 39, Code 93, Code 128/subset A,B,C, Codabar,
Interleave 2 of 5, UPC A/E 2 and 5 add-on, EAN-13/8/128, UCC-128,
GS1-128, etc.
2D Barcodes: MaxiCode, PDF417, Data Matrix, QR Code, GS1
DataMatrix, GS1 QR Code, CS Code, etc.
Interfaces RS-232 Serial, 10/100/1000Mbps Adaptive Ethernet, USB DEVICE 2.0,
USB HOST
LCD Display 4.5″ LCD Capacitive Touchscreen
Power Source 100 ~ 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz
Weight 33.06 lbs (15 kgs)
Dimensions W 11.3″ (286 mm) x D 17.6″ (448 mm) x H 10.7″ (271 mm)
Operating
Environment
Temperature: 32°F ~ +104°F (0°C ~ 40°C)
Relative humidity: 5% - 90% non condensing
Maximum Altitude: 5000 m
Storage Environment
Temperature: -40°F ~ +140°F (-40°C ~ 60°C)
Relative humidity: 5% - 90% non condensing
①:HEATTM, or Heating Equilibrium Adaptive Tuning, is a POSTEK designed and developed
cutting-edge technology that sets the benchmark for heat management in thermal printing. Printers
equipped with HEATTM have significant improvements in their printout clarity and print speed. The
HEATTM level represents the fineness of the heating uniformity with level I being the finest.
②: For Mount-on-Metal RFID tags, the flexibility of the tag and whether or not to use fillings to
bridge the gaps between tags can affect print quality and even encoding success rate. It is strongly
recommended to test the tags on this POSTEK printer before purchasing.
Optional Features
RFID Verifier* External-mount module (Only available for RFID models)
Wireless Module* WIFI IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax, 2.4/5GHz, Bluetooth 5.0
Cutters
Type Rotary Cutter
Model A150 A400
Max. Cut Width 120 mm 120 mm
Min. Cut Length 20 mm 20 mm
Cut Thickness
(white cardboard paper) 0.20 mm 0.20 ~ 0.35 mm

TX Exp Series RFID | Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual Chapter 1: Introduction
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Cut Through Adhesive Yes Yes
Cuts Guaranteed 600,000 600,000
*Factory dependent.
1.2 Contents in the Box
Inspect the shipping carton(s) for possible shipping damage, if damage is discovered, notify the
shipping company to report the nature and extent of the damage.
Please check the items according to the Quick Start Guide. If there are any items missing, notify your
authorized reseller.

TX Exp Series RFID | Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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Chapter 2: Setup and Use
2.1 Main Parts and Structures
2.1.1 Front View
Figure 2-1 shows the front view of the printer.
Figure 2-1 Front View
Table 2-1 Front View Description
Number
Description
1
LCD Touchscreen
2
[FEED/Calibration] Button
3
[PAUSE/Self Test] Button
4
[CANCEL/Reset] Button
5
Status Indicator
6
Tear-off Bar
7
Right Cover

TX Exp Series RFID | Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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2.1.2 Interior View
Figure 2-2 shows the interior view of the printer.
Figure 2-2 Interior View
Table 2-2 Interior View Description
Number
Description
1
Stop Plate_Ribbon Take-up Spindle
2
Ribbon Take-up Spindle
3
Stop Plate_Ribbon Supply Spindle
4
Ribbon Guide Rod
5
Printhead Assembly
6
Thumbscrew
7
Media Roll Guide
8
Stop Plate_Media Spindle
9
External Media Loading Slot
10
Media Spindle
11
Ribbon Supply Spindle
12
Lever
13
Media Guide Roller

TX Exp Series RFID | Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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2.1.3 Rear View
The printer is equipped with multiple interfaces. See Figure 2-3.
Figure 2-3 Rear View
Table 2-3 Rear View Description
Number
Description
1
RS-232 Serial Port
2
USB Device
3
USB Host
4
Ethernet Port
5
Power Switch
6
AC Port

TX Exp Series RFID | Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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2.1.4 Consumables Loading Path
Figure 2-4 shows the consumables’ loading paths in Tear-off mode.
Figure 2-4 Loading Paths in Tear-off Mode
Table 2-4 Loading Path Description
Number
Description
1
Ribbon Guide Rod (Ribbon Take-up)
2
Platen Roller
3
Ribbon Guide Rod (Ribbon Supply)
4
Ribbon End Sensor
5
Ribbon Path (Ribbon-ink side: in)
6
Ribbon Path (Ribbon-ink side: out)
7
Media Guide Roller
8
Media Path

TX Exp Series RFID | Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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Figure 2-5 shows the consumables’ loading paths in Cutter mode (Cutter is optional).
Figure 2-5 Loading Paths in Cutter Mode
Table 2-5 Loading Path Description
Number
Description
1
Media Feed Opening (Cutter)
2
Ribbon Guide Rod (Ribbon Take-up)
3
Platen Roller
4
Ribbon Guide Rod (Ribbon Supply)
5
Ribbon End Sensor
6
Ribbon Path (Ribbon-ink side: in)
7
Ribbon Path (Ribbon-ink side: out)
8
Media Guide Roller
9
Media Path

TX Exp Series RFID | Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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2.2 Setting up the Printer
2.2.1 Interface Connection
The printer supports RS-232 Serial, USB DEVICE and 10/100/1000 Mbps Adaptive Ethernet
interface connections.
To connect:
•Make sure the printer is powered OFF.
•The printer will identify the communication port automatically.
•The default settings of the printer port can be obtained from the self-test report.
•Cable configurations for Serial (RS-232C) interface can be found in Appendix A: Interface
Specifications.
•Please take the following measures to reduce cable noise.
Restrict the length of the interface cable to less than 6’ (1.83 M) if possible.
Keep the interface cable separate from the power cords.
2.2.2 Connecting the Printer
•Do not use the printer near liquids or corrosive chemicals.
•Connecting to a wrong power source may cause damage to your printer. POSTEK assumes no
liability for any damage in such cases. The rating for the printer is 110/240 VAC ±10%, 50/60
Hz.
1. Make sure the printer is switched OFF.
2. Plug the female end of the power cord into the AC Port on the back of the printer. See Figure 2-6.
Figure 2-6 Connect the Power Cord
3. Plug the male end of the power cord into a live wall outlet. See Figure 2-7.

TX Exp Series RFID | Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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Figure 2-7 Plug the Power Cord
The shape of power plug varies depending on the region in which it was purchased.
2.2.3 Loading the Ribbon
•Load ribbon only when using the thermal transfer printing mode. Remove any ribbon that may be
loaded when using the direct thermal printing mode.
•Use ribbon that is wider than the media to protect the printhead form wear.
To load the ribbon, refer to Figure 2-8 through Figure 2-13 and follow the steps below:
1. Lift to open the right cover of the printer.
2. Turn the Lever counter clockwise to open the Printhead. See Figure 2-8.
Figure 2-8 Open the Printhead
3. Stick a label to the outside/ inside of the ribbon to check which side the ink is on. See Figure 2-9.

TX Exp Series RFID | Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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Figure 2-9 Check Ink Side
4. Place the ribbon roll on the Ribbon Supply Spindle, see Figure 2-10. Make sure that the ribbon
roll is firmly pushed against the Stop Plate.
Figure 2-10 Load Ribbon Roll
5. Follow the ribbon path indicated in Figure 2-4, thread the ribbon under the Ribbon Guide Rod
and pass the Printhead Assembly, make sure that the ribbon’s ink side is facing the media. See
Figure 2-11.
Ribbon
Label

TX Exp Series RFID | Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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Figure 2-11 Thread Ribbon through Printhead Assembly
6. Wrap the ribbon around a spare ribbon core to form a Ribbon Take-up Roll. See Figure 2-12.
Figure 2-12 Wrap Ribbon on the Core
7. Slide the Ribbon Take-up Roll on the Ribbon Take-up Spindle and push it firmly against the Stop
Plate. Turn the Take-up Spindle until the ribbon is tightly wound. See Figure 2-13.